Asian Cup 2023: Hosts Pakistan got off to a strong start by beating Nepal by 238 runs in the first game of the Asian Cup. This great Pakistani victory is sure to add to India’s concerns. On September 2nd there is a clash between India and Pakistan. However, already in the first game of the Asian Cup, Pakistan showed that not only their batsmen but also their bowlers are in excellent form.
Pakistan had lost two wickets in 25 runs against Nepal. After that, Babar Azam played the captains inning. Babar Azam continued his inning as the situation demanded. Babar completed his century in 110 balls. Then Babar increased the hitting rate dramatically and scored 50 runs in the next 20 balls. This is how Babar Azam managed to hit 151 runs with the help of four sixes.
Babar Azam’s best form could prove to be a big problem for India. Additionally, Iftikhar Ahmed played an innings of 109 in 71 balls. This is Iftikhar Ahmed’s first century in ODI cricket. With those innings from Iftikhar, the problem of Pakistan’s middle class seems to have been solved.
Pakistan’s bowlers, as before, showed excellent form. Shaheen Shah Afridi managed to take two wickets in the first round. Naseem Shah also took a wicket in his first over. Haris Rauf bowled great in the middle overs and also managed to take two wickets.
Pakistan’s spinners also showed that it won’t be easy for the Indian batsmen to rise to their challenge. Shadab Khan received 4 wickets by spending 27 runs in 6.4 overs. Nawaz also managed to capture a wicket in two bowling overs.
The performance of the Pakistani team was shown in a kind of game against Nepal. With the great victory over Nepal, Pakistan has also warned India. It seems certain that if Pakistan manages to repeat this kind of feat, a head-to-head clash with India will also ensue.
